Moto Guzzi California & V7 Scrambler Debut

Bashing away at the MotoUSA keyboard for nine years now, Madson lends his scribbling and editorial input on everything from bike reviews to industry analysis and motorcycle racing reports.

Moto Guzzi revealed a prototype version of its California cruiser at the Piaggio dealer meeting in Monte Carlo (top). The current California model is the Vintage (bottom).

Italian manufacturer Moto Guzzi revealed two prototype models at the Piaggio dealer meeting in Monte Carlo January 27-28. The surprising debut featured an updated version of the company’s California cruiser, sporting a larger 1400cc version of the firm’s V-Twin. MG also showcased a Scrambler version of its retro-styled V7.

California

The most obvious change on the new California is the look of Moto Guzzi’s cross-frame mounted V-Twin. The cylinder heads still protrude out the side of the bike, but the now-black valve covers extend halfway up the fuel tank. Bigger news, however, is the V-Twin’s 1400cc displacement. The current California model, available in the U.S. as the California Vintage, sports a 1064cc engine.

Moto Guzzi also touts new brakes, suspension and wheels. Though details aren’t given, the multi-spoke cast wheels replace the more traditional wire-spoked units of the current model. Braking are dual disc units up front, with Brembo calipers.

Style-wise the prototype California is a far more modern take on the cruiser aesthetic than its forerunner. The prototype is leaner looking and less swoopy than the current production bike.

As for the new California’s future, Moto Guzzi PR says the bike’s features proclaim “the California’s membership of an eagerly awaited new generation of Moto Guzzi bikes.” Stay tuned for more details.

The Moto Guzzi V7 Scrambler prototype features wire-spoked wheels and right side exhaust.

V7 Scrambler

The Scrambler appears to further expand Moto Guzzi’s V7 vintage line – the Italian maker featuring a snappy looking café racer version of its V7 at the EICMA Milan Bike show. The V7 Scrambler sources the 750 Twin from the production V7. Wire-spoked wheels and right-side exhaust complete the look. The exhaust featured on the V7 Scrambler is from Arrow, the firm also supplying accessory pipes for Triumph, including the British marque’s own Scrambler.